epw029474 ENGLAND (1929). The remains of Helmsley Castle with the East Tower undergoing conservation, Helmsley, 1929

Helmsley Castle. Overlooking the River Rye. 1120 - A castle, constructed in wood around 1120, was built by Walter l'Espec. The outer bailey is now covered by a car park. 1186 - Robert de Ros, son of Everard de Ros, began work on converting the castle to stone. He built two main towers, the round corner towers and the main gateway on the south side of the castle. ROBERT de ROOS of Fursan (Furfan was a Templar title. An f was written as an s in those days), was a surety for the Magna Charta, and fourth Baron of Hamlake Manor, he was born in 1177, died in 1227 and was buried in Temple Church, London. In early days the castle site was also known as Hamlake Manor, and from Sir Robert's Templar title also as Furfan or Furstan castle. 1227-1258 Chapel built in courtyard 1258-1285 - East tower built, new Hall and kitchen. mid 16th C- old hall converted into mansion, chapel changed to kitchen, new hall demolished. During the Civil War the castle was wrecked but the Mansion was left. In 1687 the castle was bought by Charles Duncombe, who was Lord Mayor of London in 1708. In 1711 the castle was inherited by Thomas Brown, husband of Charles Duncombe's sister. He changed his name to Thomas Duncombe and had a country house built nearby in Duncombe Park. The castle is in the care of English Heritage and can be visited for a fee. Image: Photographer: Hallam Ashley, June 1954. Not to be reproduced without permission; Copyright English Heritage. Image from http://www.englishheritagearchives.org.uk/SingleResult/Default.aspx? id=287482&t=Quick&cr=helmsley&io=True&l=all